KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — May 15, 2025 — Zoo Knoxville is proud to announce the grand opening of Rhino Reserve, a dynamic new habitat home to two Southern White Rhinos, Mylo and Ranger. The exhibit opens to the public Memorial Day Weekend, with an official launch on Friday, May 23.
This marks an exciting milestone in Zoo Knoxville’s ongoing commitment to rhino conservation. The zoo has a long and successful history of working with Southern White Rhinos, including participation in breeding programs that contribute to the survival of the species. Rhino Reserve continues that legacy with a state-of-the-art space designed to engage guests while supporting the health and well-being of the animals.
“We’re so excited to welcome Mylo and Ranger and continue Zoo Knoxville’s legacy with Southern White Rhinos,” said Zoo Knoxville President and CEO Bill Street. “This is an amazing opportunity to share the story of these incredible animal ambassadors with our guests and inspire a deeper connection to wildlife and conservation.”
Ranger and Mylo are half-brothers and part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan, a collaborative program designed to maintain genetically healthy and sustainable populations in accredited zoos.
In addition to offering close-up views of the animals, Rhino Reserve includes educational elements about rhino conservation and the threats these animals face in the wild, including habitat loss and poaching.
Southern White Rhinos are the largest of the five rhino species, and thanks to global conservation efforts, their population has rebounded from the brink of extinction. Still, with around 18,000 remaining in the wild, they are considered near threatened and need continued protection.
To learn more about Zoo Knoxville’s conservation efforts visit zooknoxville.org
About Zoo Knoxville
Zoo Knoxville is a nonprofit entity situated on 53 wooded acres just east of downtown Knoxville. Zoo Knoxville features exhibits of wild animals in natural habitats and is world renowned for its efforts in conservation and species survival. Zoo Knoxville is nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is committed to the highest standards in animal care and well-being, ethics, conservation, and education. Knoxville’s largest attraction, the zoo is open every day except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Currently, the zoo is open daily from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Admission and ticket sales stop one-hour before the zoo closes. For more information visit zooknoxville.org.
